Gary Sheffield Released By TigersTigers release Gary Sheffield, look to get younger.

The Detroit Tigers knew they needed to make changes this season -- and in an unexpected move on Tuesday, the team released designated hitter Gary Sheffield. (Photo by Charles Krupa, AP)

The 40-year-old Sheffield hit .225 last season and just .178 this spring, but he still figured to be a fixture in the middle of the Tigers lineup this season. Instead, the Tigers will eat the $14 million they still owe him. The move will give the Tigers more flexibility on their roster and will open the door for Marcus Thames or Jeff Larish to fill the DH spot.

Sheffield is just one home run away from 500 in his career. Although it's unlikely any team will pick Sheffield up off waivers because they'd have to honor terms of his contract, there figures to be some team out there interested in Sheff as a part-time right-handed DH. Perhaps a return to his hometown of Tampa?